Fox Sports Digital acquires assets from start-up StraightCast Media

The acquisition includes the rights to Gridiron Grunts, which allows NFL fans and players to shoot and distribute clips of games, practices and more.

Fox Sports Digital, the digital arm of Fox’s sports network, has acquired assets from StraightCast Media, an online sports start-up that produces sports-centered mobile apps, in an effort to bring more interactive and personal content to fans.

StraightCast was founded by former 49ers player Jeb Terry. Its most well-known app is the Gridiron Grunt app, which was created by NFL players Terry and Ryan Nece. The app is used to capture and share mobile video across television and digital platforms. Fox Sports Digital has confirmed its acquisition includes rights to the Gridiron Grunts app.

High-profile NFL players have used the app, giving Gridiron Grunt significant exposure among football fans. Some users of the app include Richard Sherman (pictured), Michael Vick, Victor Cruz and Marshawn Lynch.

Fox Sports first partnered with StraightCast during the 2014 NFL season to create the On The Bus digital mini-series, which featured mobile video taken by players on their way to the game.

StraightCast has also previously worked with ESPN and the NFL Network.

But it’s not just about football — Fox Sports Digital plans on using StraightCast’s success with football content to expand to other sports, including UFC, baseball, soccer and golf, according to a media statement.